Diane Johnstone

Welcome to Writer's Best Friend Literary Consultancy

In most cases, agents and editors will come to a decision about your manuscript before they reach the bottom of the first page. Your clever idea alone won’t win them over. What will excite them is reading your clever idea developed into a well-constructed text supported by your skilful handling of plot, structure, characterisation, setting and dialogue. Writers Best Friend can help.

Featured Testimonials

I am always amazed by the depth and breadth of Diane's knowledge. Whether it's ancient Greece, medieval France or eighteenth-century Jerusalem, Diane seems to know instinctively when historical detail does or doesn't ring true. An invaluable gift for her clients and all would-be historical... Read More »

How anyone can write anything without having a good person to read their stuff and give encouraging criticism at the same time is beyond me. Inventive, funny and endlessly knowledgeable, Diane Johnstone is full of fresh thoughts about everything to do with writing and keeping a reader excited by... Read More »

Diane’s input has been invaluable to my work. Her insightful comments, excellent line-editing skills and above all, her understanding of what I was trying to achieve have kept me going and constantly spurred me on. Diane has guided me through the process of completing my first draft, helping me... Read More »

What a great editor. Diane Johnstone helped me creatively rethink and reposition my book. She is one of the few editors that truly works together with the author very much in a partnership mode. If you want an editor to really support and help you, contact Diane... Read More »

Diane is exactly what you want from a writer’s best friend. She’s a kind and encouraging voice on the end of the phone with a great sense of humour, and a lot of wisdom.
But she’s also a brilliant editor who questions characters, sub-plots and even the words used to make sure that all of... Read More »

Literary Consultant Services

Assessment

My assessment will concentrate on the synopsis, the plot, the various building blocks of your work – character, dialogue, setting and so on. Plus, any specific points you have asked me to look at, as well as the general presentation of the manuscript and the marketability of your proposal.

Copy-editing

I am able to provide a comprehensive copy editing service for all writers who are keen to make the right impression before submitting a manuscript to a publisher.

A Friendly Face

I am passionate about writing and I am always encouraged to see so many writers 'having a go'. If you need any help along the journey towards publishing your literary ideas, just get in touch and I'll see how I can help.

Tips & Advice

Please read or subscribe to my blog for regular tips and tricks to becoming a successful writer. If you have any of your own advice or good news about writing to share with others, please get in touch and I'll add it to my blog.